In a show of diplomatic goodwill, Mrs. Marie-Noëlle Duris, the First Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission of France to Sri Lanka, engaged in a constructive meeting with Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), at the Defence Headquarters Complex in Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte, on October 29.
Key Discussion Highlights
- Strengthening Defence Cooperation: AVM Thuyacontha extended a warm welcome to Mrs. Duris, focusing discussions on bolstering defence collaboration and exploring avenues to reinforce the historical ties between Sri Lanka and France.
- Focus on Maritime Security: Commander Jean-Baptiste Trouche, the French Military Technical Cooperation Officer for Maritime Security, joined the meeting, underscoring France’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in securing its maritime boundaries.
- Collaborative Outlook: Both parties reaffirmed the mutual benefit of enhanced military and defence exchanges, especially in maritime security, given Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
Sri Lankan Officials Present
Air Vice Marshal Padman De Costa, the Military Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Defence, was also in attendance, contributing to the dialogue on future collaborative initiatives between the two nations.
This meeting underscores the commitment of both Sri Lanka and France to continue building a strong partnership in defence and security, reflecting a shared interest in regional stability and maritime safety.
Update from: Defence Ministry Sri Lanka
Last modified: October 30, 2024
